Clean Fuel: Chicken Tikka and Chickpea Masala

Endurance athletes require foods that provide sustained energy over multiple hours. Complex carbohydrates, such as those found in chickpeas, provide the energy release necessary for keeping your performance going strong all the way to the finish. Chickpeas are an athlete-friendly carb that provide fiber and protein. They digest slowly and keep you feeling full longer, making this member of the pulse family a superfood for athletes.

In this chicken tikka and chickpea masala preparation, I use chicken thighs because they are more flavorful and contain a bit more fat than chicken breasts, but the recipe will work well with any cut of chicken you use. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the meat, while the Indian-spiced masala sauce provides a full-flavor experience. This dish can be prepared in either a skillet or with a slow cooker.